A man who made 1,000 applications using false details to get a job as a doctor has been jailed for 15 months.

Bai Bai Ahmed Kabia, 46, of Hathersage Gardens, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, was found guilty of 12 counts of fraud.

An investigation was launched when it was found a sample of applications contained misrepresentations over qualifications and employment history.

The judge at Newcastle Crown Court said his behaviour showed "breathtaking arrogance".

Kabia claimed to be registered as a doctor with the General Medical Council, to have been awarded an MSc from University College London and to be a member of the Royal College of Physicians - all of which was untrue.

'Powerful deterrent'

Kabia, who is stateless, had studied as a doctor in Russia and moved to the UK in 1994.

The court was told he trained as a podiatrist and worked for some time on a self-employed basis.

Last year, Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust contacted NHS Protect after interviewing him for a role.

NHS Protect then issued an alert to trusts across England and Wales, requesting any information on job applications he submitted.